Amari to go global, plans 7 properties across India

In a bid to become a truly international brand, hospitality major Amari, which currently has 11 properties across Thailand, has gone on a major expansion spree, and identified several key destinations abroad, including Singapore, Hong Kong and London, with India being the most significant market for its expansion and growth.

“We have firmed up plans to operate 40 further properties in Asia Pacific by 2018, out of which around 7 would be set up in India alone,” said Peter Henley, president & CEO, Amari Group. Amari plans to invest about $44 million on expansion.

Since his appointment in August 2008, Henley has focused heavily on preparing Amari for change. His role is focused on putting in place a national and regional corporate growth strategy which includes allocating investment to the enhancement of systems and processes, significant revitalisation of the Amari brand and corporate management restructuring and the appointment of a number strategic senior hires.

Incidently, India also happens to be the first international market outside Thailand where Amari would set its foot. Amari’s first international property would be coming up in Delhi by the year-end, followed by Mumbai next year. Among other Indian cities, cities like Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad are on its agenda.

Asked why they are giving so much importance to the Indian market, Henley said, “India is a very important market for Amari for many reasons. Firstly, it is growing very fast which is good for the hospitality industry players like us. Secondly, the overall response for the Amari brand here is very good. We, in fact, already have strong relationship with trade and industry here, and creating further awareness of our brand won’t be a problem.”